Frequently Asked Questions

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Express Entry is Canada's online system used to manage applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. It covers three main federal economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Candidates are ranked based on a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, and those with the highest scores are invited to apply.

Your CRS score is a points-based assessment that considers various factors, including age, education, official language proficiency (English and/or French), Canadian and foreign work experience, and certain adaptability factors like having a sibling in Canada or a Canadian education. Provincial nominations and a valid job offer can also significantly boost your score.

Yes, language proficiency is a crucial component of most Canadian immigration programs. You must provide official results from an approved language test (such as IELTS or CELPIP for English, or TEF or TCF for French) to demonstrate your abilities. Your language scores directly impact your CRS score in Express Entry.

Generally, yes. You can include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children (usually under 22 years old and not married or in a common-law relationship) in your permanent residence application. If your application is approved, they will also receive permanent resident status.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) allow Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and are interested in settling in a particular province. Each province has its own unique immigration streams designed to meet its specific economic and labour market needs. A provincial nomination significantly increases your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence.

While there isn't a strict age limit for all immigration programs, age is a factor in many economic immigration programs like Express Entry. Younger applicants (typically between 20-29) generally receive the highest points for age. However, points lost due to age can often be compensated for by strong scores in other areas like education, language proficiency, and work experience.

Processing times vary significantly depending on the immigration program you apply under, the complexity of your case, the volume of applications, and the processing office. Some programs can be processed in a few months, while others may take a year or more. We can provide estimated timelines during your consultation.

A work permit allows you to live and work in Canada for a temporary period, often tied to a specific employer or type of work. It does not automatically lead to permanent residency, although Canadian work experience gained on a work permit can often improve your eligibility for permanent residence programs. Permanent residency, on the other hand, grants you the right to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada indefinitely, and is a step towards Canadian citizenship.

Yes, studying in Canada is a popular pathway to permanent residency. Many international graduates become eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing their studies at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). The Canadian work experience gained through a PGWP often makes them strong candidates for programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry or provincial nominee programs.

The required documents vary by program, but commonly include passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates, educational credentials, language test results, police certificates, proof of funds, and employment reference letters. A detailed document checklist will be provided once your eligibility for a specific program is determined.

A Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) is a professional authorized by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) to provide immigration advice and representation for a fee. RCICs are regulated by the CICC to ensure they adhere to a strict code of ethics and professional standards, protecting the public.

Hiring an RCIC can significantly streamline your immigration process. We provide expert guidance, assess your eligibility, help you choose the right program, prepare and submit your application, and represent you to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This can save you time, reduce errors, and increase your chances of success.

The costs associated with immigration include government processing fees, language test fees, educational credential assessment fees, medical exam fees, and our professional consulting fees. The exact amount varies depending on the program and the number of family members included. We will provide a transparent breakdown of all costs during your initial consultation.

Having a criminal record can impact your admissibility to Canada. Depending on the nature and severity of the offense, you may be deemed inadmissible. However, there are options like Temporary Resident Permits or criminal rehabilitation that may allow you to overcome inadmissibility. It's crucial to disclose all criminal history to us for proper assessment.

Proof of funds demonstrates that you have sufficient money to support yourself and your family when you arrive in Canada. The amount required varies based on the size of your family and is set by IRCC. These funds must be readily available and unencumbered.

While not always mandatory, a valid job offer can significantly improve your chances of immigrating, especially under Express Entry or certain PNP streams. Some programs are specifically designed for individuals with a Canadian job offer. We can provide guidance on where to look for jobs, but we do not guarantee job placement.

As a Canadian Permanent Resident, you can live, work, and study anywhere in Canada. You have access to most social benefits that Canadian citizens receive, including healthcare coverage. You are protected under Canadian law and can apply for Canadian citizenship after meeting the residency requirements.

If your application is refused, it's essential to understand the reasons for the refusal. We can help you analyze the refusal letter, identify potential issues, and advise on options such as submitting a new application, appealing the decision (if applicable), or exploring other immigration pathways.

Yes, Canadian immigration policy recognizes the concept of "dual intent," meaning you can have the intention to become a permanent resident while also applying for a temporary visa to enter or stay in Canada.

No reputable immigration consultant can guarantee the outcome of an application, as the final decision rests solely with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the relevant provincial authorities. We do guarantee that we will provide honest, accurate advice, prepare your application diligently, and represent your case to the best of our abilities, ensuring all requirements are met to maximize your chances of success.

A police certificate (or criminal record check) is required from any country or territory where you have lived for six months or more since the age of 18. This is to ensure you do not have a criminal record that would make you inadmissible to Canada.

The PGWP allows eligible international students who have graduated from a DLI in Canada to gain valuable Canadian work experience. This experience can often help them qualify for permanent residency programs like the Canadian Experience Class.

Many international students with a valid study permit are eligible to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, provided their study permit indicates this eligibility.